You have questions? We have answers!
- What is a library?
- At least two things are needed for a library: a collection of information resources, and, just as important, a place to keep the collection. The two must both be adequate for the needs of the community.
- Who "owns" the library?
- In our case, there are two entities that "own" the library: Capital Area District Library(CADL) owns the information materials, but their charter does not include responsibility for library buildings. The city of Williamston owns the current library building.
- Why is a new library building needed?
- The former library building was originally an auto
dealership's repair facility. The need to put the library into
better quarters was obvious.
Since then, the library has moved into the Community Center (the former Williamston High School). The move was difficult because many structural problems needed to be addressed, and the resulting space has many problems:- Space limitations - it doesn't seem possible, but we're told there is less shelf space than was in the old auto dealer's building.
- The library space is in several different areas that are difficult for library staff to monitor. Shelving and materials are crowded into the limited space because remaining space is only suitable for storage.
- Access is inadequate. The required elevator is prone to breaking down.
- The facility cannot accomodate the library materials and staffing that CADL says is needed by our community. CADL is ready to provide additional materials, but lack of facilities restricts what can be provided.
- Who uses the library?
- CADL has done studies that determined that most users of the Williamston branch library are in Williamstown and Wheatfield Townships and the city of Williamston. But anyone served by CADL may also use the Williamston library.
- But who uses the library?
- While many people prefer to purchase their reading materials themselves, there are countless others who find borrowing preferable. The latter includes parents who encourage their children to read, and as a result are constantly searching for new materials for their kids. It includes seniors with fixed incomes who entertain themselves with the latest bestsellers. It includes people who enjoy audio books while they travel. It includes people who understand that there is a lot of information available in libraries that is not readily available anywhere else.
- Is the expense of a new library building justified by the number of users?
- The simple answer is "of course!" A library is necessary to obtain and maintain a satisfactory level of knowledge for many of us. We all spent years in school as children and young adults. Many of us have had the benefit of costly educations. But learning is a lifelong process that doesn't end with a diploma of any level. On that basis, a library is worthwhile at almost any price.
WCLF worked several years to -
- Determine what size building is needed for a new library
- Find a location suitable for a new library
- Assure the selected location is capable of developing the library we need
Selected location
WCLF has purchased a parcel on two
lots about two blocks west of Putnam on Grand River Avenue. The
parcel has mature trees and a wonderful setting on the south bank of
the Red Cedar River with views of Brookshire Golf course.
Plans for the building site
As of early 2007, there are no specific plans for the site. WCLF did obtain an architect's study of the site to determine if it would be sufficient to construct a library meeting our needs. The site will easily accomodate a building of 10,000 sf. It has the potential to expand the building to 15,000 sf also.
